How to Geld an Older Stallion

Gelding an older stallion is necessary to control overpopulation and to ensure the safety and peace between both horses and the people who work with them. Removing the testicles eliminates the hormones that drive the male sexual and aggressive behaviors. When gelding an older stallion, the same procedure applies as with a young colt. However, since they are full-grown and more powerful, the stallion should already be trained and have good ground manners prior to the castration procedure. Preparation and daily care after the procedure will result in a successful transition from stallion to gelding.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean, level, smooth area
  • Tranquilizer
  • General anesthetic
  • Blanket
  • Petroleum jelly
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      Take your horse's temperature, pulse, and respiration. Become accustomed to your horse's nature and expressions before the surgery, so you can better understand how your horse is feeling after the procedure.

    • 2

      Check that your horse is current on vaccination and worming schedules.

    • 3

      Become familiar with handling your horse to aid in post-operative care. Practice treatments and handling so your horse is not stressed after the surgery. An older stallion is more powerful and aggressive than a young colt, so training is of the utmost importance.

    Surgery and Post-Operative Care

    • 4

      Find a clean, smooth grassy area for your veterinarian to work in. Your veterinarian will then give the horse a tranquilizer to calm it and a general anesthesia to make the horse lie down.

    • 5

      Place a soft blanket under the horse's head to protect the face from injury. The veterinarian will perform the surgical procedure within 10 to 15 minutes.

    • 6

      Contain the horse in a round pen or stall after it wakes from the anesthesia.

    • 7

      Apply a layer of petroleum jelly to the inside of the hind legs, so draining fluids do not stick to the legs, causing discomfort.

    • 8

      Wash under the tail and re-apply the petroleum jelly daily for about three weeks. The incisions will continue to drain. If the fluids smell, contact your veterinarian to check for infection.